Today, Partners for College Affordability and Public Trust released the following statement in response to the decision by the College of William & Mary's Board of Visitors to rescind their previous approval of a 5.4 percent tuition increase for in-state undergraduates in favor of a tuition freeze.This reversal follows a decision by state lawmakers to allocate an additional $52.5 million for tuition moderation.

Ahead of today's meeting, the Board of Visitors held a public comment period to allow students and community members to weigh in on the decision. A new state law requiring public colleges and university to hold public comment periods ahead of tuition decisions does not go into effect until July. Other institutions that have held similar public comment periods this spring include, Virginia Commonwealth University, George Mason University, James Madison University, and Old Dominion University.

"Holding the line on tuition even for just one year can provide a significant financial reprieve for paying students and families who are facing the already high costs of higher education," said Stacie Gordon, Partners' state advocacy manager. "The board's decision to reverse their previously approved tuition increase demonstrates a willingness to take meaningful action in addressing the issue of affordability. Today is a great day for the Tribe."